POPULATION STATUS AND ACTIVITY PATTERN OF SMOOTH-COATED OTTER (Lutrogale perspicillata) IN BHITARKANIKA NATIONAL PARK, ODISHA, EASTERN INDIA

摘要: The smooth-coated otter Lutrogale perspicillata is an IUCN-Vulnerable species as a result of habitat loss and poaching. The objective of this study was to estimate the population status and activity pattern of smooth-coated otter in Bhitarkanika National Park. To achieve this, 15 camera trap stations were established in the study area between 16th June and 5th August 2019. We recorded notionally 30 independent capture events of smooth-coated otter, over a total of 725 camera trap days. The encounter rate of smooth-coated otter was 2.06/photo-captures/100 trap days, with a diurnal activity pattern. Further research and monitoring, and awareness campaigns for local stakeholders is required in order to design effective conservation strategies of the species.